RACING STYLE, FASHION Milva Carucci RACING STYLE, FASHION Milva Carucci

Summer 2020 - All Wrapped Up

Milva wraps up Summer 2020 and some of her client’s gorgeous MCD outfits!

Where does the time go! 

We're already in March and the start of a new decade and it has been a busy 3 months here at MCD HQ. Wrapping up the summer season and taking a moment to reflect on some of the amazing one-off outfits that have been created for clients and the ever growing community of our MCD women in a few ready to wear pieces.

Kerrie

My first creation for a new decade was for Kerrie who attended the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo on the Gold Coast. Her amazing outfit and styled by her as she so beautifully always does, saw her take home the Magic Millions Polo Runner Up sash. So super proud of her efforts and making her custom made MCD outfit come to life.

The end product of any custom made is admired but so much planning and time is spent beforehand sourcing fabric, finalising style specifics and creating the perfect final look.

 


Though what is the process for a custom made piece you may ask?

 

Kerrie’s inspiration from the trending 80’s silhouettes and features was where the style began. Her love for the shirt style dress evolved to incorporate the drop waist skirt that was a feature we had used and drew inspiration from her winning Stradbroke Cup Day outfit. The trending exaggerated sleeve and fitted long cuff  was another aspect we incorporated into the design to create balance and also complimented the use of fabric as a point of interest. 

 

The fabric choice on any MCD designs is never taken lightly and one of the most challenging parts of curating a custom made outfit. At times you find the perfect print or colour tone though it may not be the right fabric composite to execute the final look. Having experience and expertise of over 30 years of dressmaking assists in combating this challenge and like in this case with Kerrie's fabric. Kerrie sourced the beautiful Italian linen which worked beautifully for the skirt but didn't have the structure for the bodice. Additional extra fabric was added to give the silhouette and we decided to create a component of illusion dressing by so cleverly utilising the stripe to be cut on the cross to draw the eye down the body in a flattering angled line.  

 

 
KerrieCarucci_MagicMillions
 

The following weekend saw Kerrie attend The Star Magic Millions Races. A very prestigious summer race event on the Gold Coast that is renowned for it's bright colours and high level of executed fashion.

Kerrie’s outfit was a beautiful style born from making use of an unusual designer brocade fabric in a vibrant pink and white thistle like print. Combining both existing signature styles with a fresh new take, of statement sleeve and a squared low backline. The final look was certainly a standout, with a contrasted emerald green and texture white headpiece by Allport Millinery. Undoubtedly, this fresh new look placed Kerrie in Top 10 at Pacific Fair Fashions on The Field.

 

Brenda

Brenda attended a local country race meet on the same day as Magic Million’s Raceday! She wore a fresh custom take on our signature style ‘Lilla’ to a local race meet that was also a joint celebration of a  blue themed family members 21st birthday. 

The fabric was a stand by I had sourced a few months back and perfect colour tones for what Brenda needed. We opted to contrast the print with a white organza for a fresh and summer look! Brenda was so pleased with the end result especially with the stretch in the fabric and feel of the silky satin fabric.

 
Brenda & her daughter Zoe - Both wearing custom Milva Carucci Designs outfits

Brenda & her daughter Zoe - Both wearing custom Milva Carucci Designs outfits

Milva Carucci Designs - Custom Made - Racing Style
 

 Sally

Sally purchased our ‘Rosa’ dress from our summer ready to wear collection. The beautiful shade of pink variegated and green detail brocade fabric had a stunning glitz finish that demands attention! In a classic A-line style and knotted circular flared sleeve was a feature that dress Sally to make this dress her own! With a real art of being able to match her outfits  with the perfect matching accessories and winning style led her to win Champion of the Day.

 
Sally wearing her Ready To Wear ‘Rosa’ Dress

Sally wearing her Ready To Wear ‘Rosa’ Dress

 

 


Emma

Ironically on the same weekend my other client Emma also placed in her age group.

Her beautiful fabric was sourced by Emma herself and she engaged with my  expertise on choosing a style that would fit and flatter her body shape. I suggested a flare skirt to show off the extent and  beauty of the bold print to it fullest! Emma loved Our signature puffy sleeve with an added cuff and the back style of Kerrie Magic Millions bodice. 

 
Emma wearing custom made MCD dress and winning

Emma wearing custom made MCD dress and winning

 

 

Thoughts and inspiration become  curated ideas that is something that forms and fits every woman's silhouette. By creating a piece that is individual, a style that is uniquely you, a custom made dress is something like no other. 

Milva xx

Interested in finding out more about your own custom made outfit?

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SCORCHING STYLE STAKES & MAGIC CLASHES

A month on and ironically South East Queensland is suffering from the exact extreme scorching heatwave conditions as we had at the Gold Coast Magic Million Races on January 14th!
East coast Australian's have almost become accustomed to shedding liters of 'sparkliness' on the daily for what feels like one of the longest, hottest summer's to date! 

For those who haven't attended the Gold Coast delight of the annual Magic Mllions Races, it is a week of filled with festivities celebrating the burst of colour, fashion fun and one of the richest races in Australia! I'm sure those who did attend, enjoyed all that this Myer Fashions on the Field Queensland State Final event and all that it encompasses for a great day at the track even in the 38 degree plus heat!

Crazy! Yes some would say! Those type of conditions can only be reasoned with by spending the day in a pool, quick trip to Antarctica or simple 18 degree air con and Netflix. Though for the keen racing fashion fashionista's and punters the glistening brows were simple taken in everyone's stiletto stride!

Being the Queensland State final for Myer FOTF and a chance to take out the major title to represent our amazing home state at the Melbourne Cup Carnvial, this reign isn't taken lightly nor is the $30,000 worth of prizes! Outfits are planned months in advance and the bar is being raised every year by the standard of eye catching show stopping outfits! 

THE OUTFIT

My outfit was inspired by an Italian 'La Dolce Vita' feel encapsulating colour, print clashes and boldness. Knowing fair well what the Gold Coast reputation of racing fashion is like, I preceded to scour the internet, fabric stores until finally I came across the amazing off-shore replica Dolce and Gabbana fabric. I actually fell in love! It was bold, had an amazing colour palette and also perfect weight for the style I had in mind!  

A multitude of sketches later, Mum and I had confirmed a style. The fun/difficult part was just about to begin! Being an unusual panelled piece of fabric with varying widths of pattern, Mum worked her magic to create the perfectly matched up, print clash to create a streamlined, eye catching piece. Opting for an open neckline to allow space between the colour blocks and a flounce feature of the skirt complete with contrasting varied geometric prints to break the dominate floral.

The Headpiece

Having such a talented milliner and friend in your life means ALOT! I'm sure all of Sophie's clients would agree that she just 'gets you' and understands what you are trying to achieve.
After seeing the fabric and sketches we worked on tying the look all together. Opting for a new shape of an Italian vibe halo, in words of Sophie 'it reminded her of the stained glass artwork in the Italian churches' and I couldn't' agree more!
This was such an easy piece to wear, comfortable and light while having some impact. The colour and combination of roses with geometric

The accessories

With such an abundance of prominent colour throughout the fabric, I decided to try and keep the accessories as simple as possible though to playfully add texture. This was through a gorgeous pair of tassel earrings and also a pair of orange fringed tie up heels. A simple red clutch, minimal jewellery and the outfit was complete!

 

 

 

Print clash fun in a sneak peak flatlay 

Print clash fun in a sneak peak flatlay 

The outfit in it's entirety! Would have to be my favourite to date! 

Image - Wendell Levi Teodoro

Sophie & I - both wearing custom made Milva Carucci Design outfits and Allport Millinery Image - Allport Millinery 

Sophie & I - both wearing custom made Milva Carucci Design outfits and Allport Millinery 

Image - Allport Millinery 

Sophie looking an absolute print clash vision in her custom Milva Carucci Designs outfit and pushing the boundaries in her gorgeous Kisses headpiece! Image - Allport Milinery 

Sophie looking an absolute print clash vision in her custom Milva Carucci Designs outfit and pushing the boundaries in her gorgeous Kisses headpiece! 

Image - Allport Milinery 

Off and racing 

Off and racing 

Ashley making Top 10 in the Men's Fashion. Wearing Myer brands Politx and Jeffery BanksStyled by meImage - Allport Millienery 

Ashley making Top 10 in the Men's Fashion. Wearing Myer brands Politx and Jeffery Banks
Styled by me

Image - Allport Millienery 

The ladies! Nothing better then a fashion fun day at the track with gorgeous friends! Gorgeous Carly (right) made the Top 10 in her gorgeous outfit and own millinery piece! image - Ross Stevenson

The ladies! Nothing better then a fashion fun day at the track with gorgeous friends! Gorgeous Carly (right) made the Top 10 in her gorgeous outfit and own millinery piece! 

image - Ross Stevenson

Despite the heat and no luck in fashons, it was a super fun day catching up with friends, having a punt and making the most of Queensland racing!

As we approach the change of season's there is still a couple of race days left. For those last minute outfits with just a couple of more weeks left of Summer  you can create a 'moment' when you step out in any of these gorgeous ready to wear range outfits. Having them custom fitted will allow you to look and feel amazing!  

For now the planning is underway for Autumn/Winter Carnivals! Watch this space for a trend report straight from the runway's of fashion week! 

 

Kerrie xx 

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FLEMINGTON, FASHION & MELBOURNE'S BIGGEST WEEK - SPRING CARNIVAL 2016 wrap up

We came, we GIPHY'd, we sipped champagne & rode the Flemington Ferris Wheel

I'm sure most of you are feeling the 'festive season flutter' now the warmer months are truly are upon us here in Queensland, the days are getting longer and the social calendars are filling fast!

The delay for this wrap up is in light of the absolute perpetual fatigue following the epic lead up to the week, results of the truly amazing time we all had and the sultry weekend conditions on arrival back into HOT Brisbane! It's safe to say that say that Melbourne got us good! An absolutely fantastic week indulging in some amazing quality family time, a few too many Brunetti's treats, fabric sourcing, fashion and of course some amazing race day fun with friends! And for the record, anyone looking at going to the Spring Carnival next year, get yourself to THE PARK! Honestly one of the best set ups I've ever seen! Amazingly themed, areas, food stalls, numerous bars, entertainment was next level and the little touches like cute GIPHY booths and custom illustrations were aplenty! 

 

The new and improved 'The Park' where we hung out for the Spring Carnival

The new and improved 'The Park' where we hung out for the Spring Carnival

Treats were a plenty! Ohh Brunetti's 

Treats were a plenty! Ohh Brunetti's 

When we first booked flights and accommodation all the way back in May on what would be one of the BIGGEST bucket list items of mine, it seemed like it was soo far away with plenty of time to plan all things racing fashion! How mistaken was I! 

For those who are only new on the racing fashion scene or have watched from afar,  Melbourne is the PINNACLE of Australian Racing Fashion! Being the most prestigious event of the year, the race that literally stops the nation, naturally comes international beauties, show stopping millinery and some beyond amazingly styled outfits! Collating outfits for the 3 main race days is a fashionista's dream though also somewhat a stressful, STRESSFUL venture. It's not just about the bags, shoes, outfits, millinery, hairdressers appointments, getting in and out of cabs, ubers or public transport with handcrafted masterpieces on your head all the while ensuring you don't sink on the grass......

It's the months of planning, sketching, Sunday's spent fabric sourcing, stalking runways for inspiration, more sketches, a GIZZILON picture messages back and forth (think my running total with mum is around 5,000) hahah, building the 'looks' that you want to achieve. Now for the part that you don't truly consider when you are all 'warm & fuzzy' with your outfit choices, have shed blood, sweat and tears conjuring them up and are soooo emotionally invested in the certainty that you have nailed the perfection combination of current trends, palettes though of course with your own twist. 

You look amazing, feel amazing but then it happens..... 
(WARNING - Style and fashion is an art. Like any art it's always up for interpretation) 
The judging panel and their solitude racing fashion opinion on the day is simple:

• May not like pink
• May not be comfortable with textural clashing
• May not like the way you pose
• May be over seeing bell sleeves
• May not like crowns
• May be thinking about the delicious espresso martini's they will have later in the birdcage

You can see a bit of a trend here? So really throwing out a bit of a bold statement, though unless they are ex-national finalists of previous fashions on the field, winners, racing fashion influencer's or milliner's within the industry then there is subsequent amount of variables. When you're literally wearing a little bit of your heart on 'your sleeve' it can be a bit of a blow to your fashionista ego not even make it through to the next round. Something to be mindful of and THE most important thing to remember is that it's just one person's opinion. Though I'm sure any contestant will agree, it's a dam good feeling having your number called out and better yet to be SASHED! 

To the outfits

Milva Carucci Designs was represented not only for the first time on custom pieces worn by myself though also mum and a few stunning clients! For mum that was a fantastic achievement in itself to have her workmanship in amongst the best! 

DERBY DAY

The first official day of Spring Carnival renowned for black and white and classic styles! Well Melbourne certainly delivered! An amazing, blue sky day, pleasurable temperature and being a Saturday it certainly brings Melbourne-ites out of hiding! 

My Derby Day outfit started with some gorgeous textural brocade patent look fabric sourced a few months ago from The Fabric Store in Brisbane. Wanting something classic with clean, structured lines, mum and I decided to use a similar style from what I wore earlier in the year.

The ever amazing and talented Sophie of Allport Millinery worked her magic to create the perfect complementary piece! Deciding to go with the large off white texture sinamay disc allowed the outfit to have a little mystery though also a suttle statement. Shoes by Divaolina provided the clean lines and patent feel to be continued and additionally a hexagon shaped Olga Berg Clutch.  

Mum's dress was a gorgeous fluted collar and bell sleeve combination in an offwhite and black contrast Josh Goot fabric also sourced from The Fabric Store. A custom piece by Liana of Sonlia Fashion added texture and femininity to the outfit. 

I didn't have any luck in making it through the heats that day though we had a good day on the punt and enjoyed the hospitality and 'Park' vibes of Day 1!

Between the arches of The Park

Between the arches of The Park

Mum and I enjoying the first day of fashion and race day funBoth wearing custom Milva Carucci Design dresses & Sonlia Millinery (L) and Allport Millinery (R)(Photo by Liana Hastie)

Mum and I enjoying the first day of fashion and race day fun

Both wearing custom Milva Carucci Design dresses & Sonlia Millinery (L) and Allport Millinery (R)
(Photo by Liana Hastie)


 

MELBOURNE CUP DAY

The race that stops the nation! Though also brings some amazing, unusual and showstopping pieces to the track! There were giant feather mohawks, bright colour palettes and some colourful characters on display. Some even took the chance to strip down to their bright budgy smugglers to make the most of Melbourne's sunshine! 

The idea behind this impart was just all about the focal point of the fabric. This was sourced a few years ago again from The Fabric store in Brisbane. A gorgeous textured polyester fabric that had the sweetest blue bird print. With blue being a large trend this year, I thought it would be only fitting to keep the style simple to let the fabric really sing and then pick up the subtle blue in the fabric in accessories and millinery. Another big trend this racing season has been the boater and seeing the work of Ann Shoebridge last year I decided to go with a custom lace brim boater. Accessories were simple with jewellery from Lovisa, shoes Tony Bianco and a Colette clutch.

Keeping with a bird theme, Mum's amazing outfit also had a statement print in a tonal blue palette also sourced from The Fabric Store. With a gorgeous simple style to allow the print do the talking, contrasted bell sleeves allowed a section of flow to her outfit. Again complemented by an eye catching millinery piece by Sonlia. 

As the nerves were a little less on being the second day, I was absolutely wrapped to have made it through to the Prelim finals. From there all competitors go back to the green room for a champagne and await the next round. From up to 80 girls it is cut to the Top 10! It was an amazing experience and somewhat achievement to make it through! Though the true highlight was spending the day enjoying the races, espresso martini's,dancing to Betty Who and Marcia Hines though having so many lovely people in the crowd compliment me on my outfit that day! That's what fashion really is about, loving your outfit, owning your styling and having a good time! 

Not only did I make it through to the prelims but so did another of mum's clients. The gorgeous, bubbly Leanne who's personality is a reflection of her amazing, bright and eye catching pink, purple and gold outfit! Was so lovely catching up with them! 

Cassandra also wearing a custom Milva Carucci Designs dress and her own millinery creation opted for a gorgeous purple and orange number that caught the attention of many photographers and spectators! 

Amanda wore a stunning emerald green fitted lace dress that had an amazing back detail! 

 

CROWN OAKS DAY

Last day of the carnival is always the biggest! Unfortunately mum and dad had to fly out that morning so today was the last day to really enjoy Flemington! The State finals for Victoria with the winner going through to the National finals where the winner receives up to $300k in prizes including a new Lexus!!

My outfit was simple in style as once again the fabric did most of the talking. Taking inspiration from Self Portrait, Mum had sourced the fabric from spotlight and opting with a combination of off the shoulder and a gathered sleeve. Being the feminine themed day of the carnival, lace and pastels seemed too fitting. This was complemented by my stunning crown by Allport Millinery! The inspiration behind the outfit was simple, 'Some days you just need to wear a crown'. 

Keeping accessories to rose gold, the simplistic palette was feminine yet metallic. Shoes from Target and my trusty Olga berg clutch. Again I was so very excited to have made it into the prelim finals! So many amazing outfits! 

Following the announcement of the winner it was a swift trip back to the city to jump on a plane!! Which might I add we almost missed! Quite the adventure, running through Tullamarine airport juggling hat boxes, suitcases all the while still wearing the crown which for future reference WILL prove difficult when going through airport security! 

On reflection, I think my choices stood true to my style, body shape and personal 'looks'  I wanted to achieve,  though moving forward, Melbourne is in a bag of it's own! It's all about pushing boundaries within limits, being noticed though not focal, being structured though fluid and on trend without trending. You can see how easily it is to sit in that sash worthy position! *chuckle worthy*

Wrapping up, I can say that this has been a HUGE tick on my bucket list, some amazing quality time with my family and fashionista friends is what makes moments like these in our lives memorable! It's really not about the shoes, bags, fascinators or sashes, it's truly about the time and people for all facets of life that you surround yourself in these beautiful memories. 

Absolutely bursting with gratitude the last couple of months preparation and wanted to take a moment to truly thank those involved with bringing my visions to life. To the ever talented Sophie of Allport Milinery thank you for simply creating such amazing pieces! Ann Shoebridge my blue boater is certainly now a favorite in my collection, thank you for letting those little birds fly! 
But last but not least is my amazing and uber talented mum, words can't express how grateful and in oar I am of you and your amazing seamstress skills! I know I'm possibly your most difficult client though you never cease to amaze me! 

 

P.S. If you're still reading, thanks for clicking the link! Your support to myself though most importantly my amazing Mum's brand is truly appreciated! Between us both, there is more creative inspiration then the walls of Chanel! 

2017 is promised to be an exciting one with many plans on 'THE LIST". To stay up to date and in the know on sneak peaks, new fabrics and collections, make sure you subscribe and follow us on social media! Links are below. 

 

Kerrie xox

Instagram: kez_xox

 

 

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THE RACE TO THE FINISHING POST

Where has the this year gone?

It feels like only yesterday that Milva (mum) and I planning were my Magic Millions outfit at the start of January! Though here we are now, at the end of October and the race to the finish post  (that being the pinnacle of Spring Racing Season - Flemington Melbourne Cup Carnival) is on!!! 

What has been a crazy, creative, rewarding yet busy year so far for Milva Carucci Designs it goes without saying it has been an exciting one!

So many wonderful clients, Australia wide being able to partake in the amazing soul, bursting experience of owning their very first custom outfit or simply bringing to life by their visionary of inspiration or requirement!
Spring is the season of weddings, engagements, baby showers, births, school formals and of course spring carnival races across Australia. Here's a bit of a recap on the past two months of a few of the gorgeous client's in their spring custom made outfits in the lead up to Melbourne Cup Carnival!

To kick off the Spring Racing Season Cairns Amateurs was first on the calender. Renowned for bringing together the colour, fun and festivities encompassing the reef to the races it consists of two major days of racing and some fierce FNQ Fashions on the Field Competition. 

Friday 1st of September was Ladies Day which is made up of classic racewear, fun lines and delving into on trend components. 

 

Chermay looked absolutely amazing in a European summer inspired outfit taking highlight to the ever present off the shoulder trend and incorporating flattering stripes with contract floral components. 

Chermay looked absolutely amazing in a European summer inspired outfit taking highlight to the ever present off the shoulder trend and incorporating flattering stripes with contract floral components. 

When you have a winning ensemble in your wardrobe why not make the most it! Lucy, so on trend on this black and metallic combo!

When you have a winning ensemble in your wardrobe why not make the most it! Lucy, so on trend on this black and metallic combo!

▫️▪️NOtNoNothNothing like classic black and white! Gorgeous Daleena in her custom white dress Complemented by Sonlia Millinery  

▫️▪️NOtNoNothNothing like classic black and white! 
Gorgeous Daleena in her custom white dress
Complemented by Sonlia Millinery

 

 

The second day of the festivities is Amateur Cup Day. More spring colour and celebrations continue with fashion, races and flowing champagne! 

It's not all hard work and no play though! Milva was able to enjoy a day at the track with her dapper husband. It is always nice to be able to catch up with client's on the day and see their amazing outfits all come together!

Everyone looked so very amazing with Bella's gorgeous grey and cream print classic style dress with a twist made the Finals for the fashion on the field in the Under 30 category. 

When you have just such stylish parents! Milva looking spring and floral Complemented by Sonlia Millinery 

When you have just such stylish parents! Milva looking spring and floral 

Complemented by Sonlia Millinery 

Gorgeous Bella in her amazing classic twist dress making the Finals of Fashions on the FieldComplemented by Sonlia Millinery

Gorgeous Bella in her amazing classic twist dress making the Finals of Fashions on the Field

Complemented by Sonlia Millinery

And everyone loves a bit of dress twirling action !

 

Lucy looking bright and fun in a gorgeous African inspired skirt with a classic twist 

Lucy looking bright and fun in a gorgeous African inspired skirt with a classic twist 

Catching up with gorgeous clients 

Catching up with gorgeous clients 

 

 

With Spring now in full swing........ the race days were to follow on the Atherton Tablelands & Mareeba.

Below is a snippet of Milva Carucci Design's stunning client's in their custom pieces! 

 

 

 

Meanwhile, down in south east Queensland the southern spring racing carnival kicked off. 
I attended the Pink Ribbon Cup Day down on the Gold Coast. With such a worthy cause with all proceeds going towards the National Breast Cancer Association, it's always a good excuse to frock up in over the top pink and enjoy a day in the sunshine with friends over a few champers!

Keeping the style quite simple to let the vibrant fuschia pink digital floral print fabric shine, we opted for a boat neck fitted bodice with a gusset flared skirt dress. Complete with a vintage boater with a last minute addition of white veiling and pink braiding to pull the whole look together! 

At Pink Ribbon Cup Day 

At Pink Ribbon Cup Day 

And back up in FNQ, Innisfail Annuals was held. From what would be quite a wet race day (in true Innisfail style), the ever gorgeous Lucy was absolutely beaming in her bright yellow jacquard off the shoulder dress! Absolutely stunning style on her and with a pop of colour demanded spring attention! She made Top 6 in the Under 30's category and won Best Millinery! 

Lucy at Innisfail Annuals Photo courtesy of Heather York

Lucy at Innisfail Annuals
Photo courtesy of Heather York

Lucy winning Best millinery and also making Top 6 Under 30's category

Lucy winning Best millinery and also making Top 6 Under 30's category

 

As the start of Brisbane Racing Club's spring carnival events kicked off on the 15th of October, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to have a bit of a Melbourne Cup Carnival warm up! 

Being the National Breast Cancer Awareness Pink day, the theme was a touch of pink. Rewearing one of my favourite dresses, I had Amy from Pink Lane Hats whip me up this amazing large brim boater. Keeping with on trend metallic rose gold, accessories complimented that. It was a fantastic day at the track catching up with friends and even making it into the finals for the Fashions on the Field. 

National Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Day was themed a touch of pink Millinery by Pink Lane Hats

National Breast Cancer Awareness Pink Day was themed a touch of pink 

Millinery by Pink Lane Hats

With Melbourne Cup carnival in full swing there was no real time to prepare for last weekend's SUEZ Cox Plate so this was a bit of a throw together outfit! With the fashions on the field themed 'Embellishments & Individuality', this was a skirt I wore over the winter carnival with an off the shoulder flounce sleeve. Complete with a laser cut piece by Danica Erard millinery. 

SUEZ Cox Plate day where the theme was embellishment and individuality Millinery by Danica Erard Millinery 

SUEZ Cox Plate day where the theme was embellishment and individuality 

Millinery by Danica Erard Millinery 

A very brief overview of the wonderful Milva Carucci Designs client's over the start of spring! 

As you can see it has been a very busy few months in preparation though now it's time for mum to have a well deserved holiday as we head off to Melbourne for a week filled with fashion, Flemington, horses, food and the amazing Melbourne culture! Stay tuned for the Spring Carnival Wrap up on our return to give you a full run down on our spring carnival outfit preparations!

So until then follow both myself and Milva Carucci Designs on social media for all the live updates on all things fashion at Flemington, links are below! 

 

Kerrie xx 

 

 

 

 

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FASHION, WINNING STYLE, STYLING, RODEO Milva Carucci FASHION, WINNING STYLE, STYLING, RODEO Milva Carucci

76 WHITE BOOTS ALL IN A ROW

Dust, livestock, denim jeans, Akubra's, cowboy boots, the smell of dagwood dogs cooking and the sound of the showman's banter....... 

These are the familiar sights, smells and sounds of the annually held Mareeba Rodeo that encompasses the township of Mareeba for 3 weeks of festivities and events. With the Mareeba & District Rodeo Association founded in 1949, this is an important event for the community to not only allow local's an occasion to look forward to yearly though also allowing travelers to experience the highlights that the Mareeba Rodeo provides!

With rodeo's being prominently a male dominated sport in the early years, in 1959 the Mareeba Rodeo Queen Competition started to allow the ladies to have their involvement also. The Rodeo Queen competition is open to residents of the Mareeba region with entrants between the age 16 to 25 years. Entrants are judged on personality, general knowledge, appearance, general conversation skills, deportment, speech and manners and given 5 questions relating to the Mareeba Rodeo. The community involvement continues within the region as local business and clubs are invited to sponsor or put an entrant forward. Each year a Rodeo Queen, Rodeo Princess and Miss Popularity are crowned at the Friday night downtown parade where local business can also showcase their craft, services with an array of floats, machinery and local clubs! As part of entering the competition, it is compulsory for all entrants to wear a 'Western Style' outfit comprising of a skirt and is worn to the variety of festival events.

 

2016 Rodeo Queen competition winner's (c) Queen Sarah Bensted in custom Milva Carucci Designs(r) Miss Personality Angel Pulverenti also in custom Milva Carucci DesignsSource: Peter Roy Photography 

2016 Rodeo Queen competition winner's 

(c) Queen Sarah Bensted in custom Milva Carucci Designs
(r) Miss Personality Angel Pulverenti also in custom Milva Carucci Designs

Source: Peter Roy Photography
 


In 2010, I embarked on the journey to be involved in making the rodeo entrant's custom outfits. At the time, I was working part time as a postal officer and operating my part time alterations/dressmaking business. Being my first year to do anything like this, I was apprehensive and not sure how to undertake the challenge of ensuring 13 girls looked individual, bringing out their true personality, all whilst working to style a look that would compliment white western boots and hat. For most of the entrants, the go to option of a basic vest, white shirt and straight skirt combination was decided upon, customising each with a different fabric combinations. One or two, took the plunge to change from the previously dominated white under shirt to a contrasting colour with one entrant even opting for a check dress! 

From this experience my ideas started to roll in for the following year and my confidence grew with operating my business and juggling a part time job too! Over the past 7 years I have had the pleasure to work with 76 entrants in addition to a handful of Cowpoke entrants and junior cowgirls and cowboys. Working with each entrant, my creativity has really shone through to highlight the confidence of each entrant when they wore their design, allowing their personality to be truly expressed!  Each and every girl has made the experience so far very memorable and as each year progresses their confidence to step outside the 'traditional box' has been ever growing! 

This year by far has been the most adventurous for entrants! Conscious of what changes previous years girl's have made in addition to really creating a different overall look, they were more than happy to take any advice or ideas!

This opportunity has allowed Milva Carucci Designs to further it's community involvement in addition to integrating creativity and latest trends for new and exciting pieces! Having such a fantastic, ever growing relationship and community involvement is value I hold quite highly!  I look forward to working with next year's entrant's in creating the perfect personality shining piece! 

 

Milva 

 

2010 entrants 

2010 entrants 

2011 entrants 

2011 entrants 

 2011 winners - trio in Milva Carucci Designs Queen - Eliza MichaelPrincess - Keir TilseMiss Personality - Rachel Arancio

 

2011 winners - trio in Milva Carucci Designs 

Queen - Eliza Michael
Princess - Keir Tilse
Miss Personality - Rachel Arancio

2012 entrants

2012 entrants

2013 entrants 

2013 entrants 

2013 winners - both in Milva Carucci DesignsQueen - Alessia AloiaPrincess - Lisa Nastasi

2013 winners - both in Milva Carucci Designs

Queen - Alessia Aloia
Princess - Lisa Nastasi

2014 entrants

2014 entrants

2015 entrants 

2015 entrants 

2016 entrants

2016 entrants

2016 Rodeo Queen winnerSarah BenstedSource: Peter Roy Photography

2016 Rodeo Queen winner
Sarah Bensted

Source: Peter Roy Photography

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